Health-Care Plans

Our health-care discount plans are available to members only and are handled for us by third-party administrators. The administrators are very efficient, and new members are generally enrolled quickly. Please contact the third-party administrators for details of coverage provided or discounts offered. The EFA office is not able to provide any information.

The Open Enrollment Period for coverage starting in 2017 will begin November 1, 2016, and end January 31, 2017. Until then, most people can apply for coverage in 2016 only if they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Some kinds of life changes that could affect your income or health-care plan status, including getting or losing a job, marriage or divorce, or the end of your COBRA eligibility, count as Qualifying Life Events for an SEP. Other issues relevant to freelancers are dealt with on the page about Health coverage if you're self-employed.

The White House Office of Public Engagement's message on getting coverage through the exchanges reminds us that:

It's affordable. 8 out of 10 people who enroll in a health plan receive financial help. In fact, most people can find a health insurance plan for as little as $75 or less per month.

It's easy to shop and sign up. During last year’s open enrollment, it took most people only about 10 minutes to submit an application.

It's the law. The January 31st deadline is your last chance to avoid the penalty on your taxes of $695 or more next year.

Free help is available! If you have a question about HealthCare.gov, you can always call 1-800-318-2596 for personal assistance, all day and every day. The call is free. Trained enrollment specialists will provide free, personal help and share other important advice, including how to qualify for financial help, how to start an application, or how to re-enroll.